Graduation Date
Fall 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Master of Arts degree with a major in Psychology, option Academic Research
Committee Chair Name
Gregg J. Gold
Committee Chair Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Second Committee Member Name
Carrie Aigner
Second Committee Member Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Third Committee Member Name
Brandilynn Villarreal
Third Committee Member Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Keywords
Structural stigma, Minority stress, Coerced migration, Internal displacement, Mental health, Anti-trans legislation, IDP, Refugee, LGBT, LGBTQ+, Transgender, Policy, Gender diverse, Well-being, Discrimination
Subject Categories
Psychology
Abstract
In 2025, at least 1,000 bills targeting transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals were introduced across the United States, contributing to an environment of escalating structural stigma. As a result, many TGD individuals have relocated from states with high levels of stigma to those with lower levels in search of safety, access to care, and social affirmation. This study examines these individuals as internally displaced persons (IDPs) and is informed by refugee psychological literature, as both experiences arise from coercive structural forces that compel individuals to relocate. This perspective highlights the involuntary nature of their migration, driven by the need for acceptance, recognition, and protection from harm. Using a survey-based, between-subjects design, this study investigates differences in mental health between TGD individuals who relocated from high structural stigma states and those who remained in high stigma environments. Additionally, the material and psychological logistics associated with TGD IDP migration are explored. Results indicated that relocated participants experienced lower minority stress and perceived less structural stigma compared to those who remained in high stigma states, though no significant differences emerged in overall mental health or perceived social support. Financial barriers were the most frequently reported obstacle to relocation. Most participants who moved reported being highly satisfied with their decision. These findings, while preliminary, provide insight into the possible relationship between minority stress, structural stigma, and coerced migration.
Citation Style
APA
Recommended Citation
Cartagena, Max E., "Fleeing structural stigma: Psychological outcomes for transgender and gender-diverse internally displaced persons" (2025). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 2505.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/2505